From Darkness into Light, Helston Chamber Choir’s first concert under its new musical director, Rico Gerber, is a journey from winter's gloom into a bright new spring.

Rico, who arrived in Cornwall with his wife from South Africa in 2000, is also director of the New Cornwall Opera and accompanist for TAODS and Mabe Ladies Choir.

The choir will open with Bach’s superb Motet for Five Part Choir, Jesu Priceless Treasure, immediately contrasted by murderous Italian Prince Gesualdo’s Morro Lasso which, although written in the 16th century, sounds utterly modern.

They will then perform a genuinely contemporary piece, Totus Tuus, composed by Polish Henryk Górecki for Pope John Paul II in 1987; the moving Concerto for Choir by Rachmaninov; and two pieces Serenit and Dark Night of the Soul by the young Norwegian composer, Ola Gjeilo in which the Choir’s voices are used more as atmospheric accompaniment to the glorious song of the cello or the piano and string quartet.

In support are mezzo-soprano Shirley Tyack, singing works by Brahms and Richard Strauss; and the Wellington Quartet who will support the Choir and also perform pieces by Rutter and Mozart. Ruth Bray will accompany the Choir on piano and organ.

From Darkness into Light will be in St Michael's Parish Church, Helston, at 7.30pm on January 25. Tickets are available on the door for £10, or can be purchased in advance for £8 from Heathercraft, Coinagehall Street, or reserved by ringing 01326 574542/572410.